Ed Sheeran, ‘Perfect’ | Track Review

Ft. Beyoncé

Ed Sheeran, ‘Perfect’ | Track Review

Ed Sheeran and Beyoncé make ‘sweet music together’ on the duet version of Sheeran’s sincere, thoughtful, hit single, “Perfect.”

Ed Sheeran had a great year in 2017. His third album ÷ (Divide) was a mega success, with the only downer being that it was snubbed in the biggest categories at the Grammys. One of the biggest hits other than the inescapable, ubiquitous “Shape of You” was “Perfect.” Initially, I didn’t select “Perfect” as a gem when reviewing ÷ in March 2017. Nonetheless, since its arrival as a single, it’s exceeded expectations and endeared itself as a gem.

Sheeran keeps in step with love, evidenced on the chorus:

“Baby I’m dancing in the dark with you between my arms / Barefoot on the grass, listening to our favorite song / When you said you looked a mess, I whispered under my breath / But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight.”

As previously stated, “Perfect” has an endearing, soulful quality that hearkens back to years before Sheeran was even born. He’s sincere, exhibiting authentic, genuine emotions, carried by his personality.

In the duet version, there are a couple of changes. The production is sparer, focused more on Sheeran’s voice, as well as his partner-in-crime, Beyoncé. Sheeran carries on singing the first verse, while Beyoncé sings the second verse. Naturally, she provides vocal contrast to Sheeran. Expectedly, she sings it exceptionally, backed by smooth, soulful backing vocals, further amplifying the emotion and intensity. After her solo turn, Sheeran rejoins her, harmonizing with radiant results. The two voices work well together.

Final Thoughts

As previously written, “Perfect” doesn’t break new ground, as a solo or duet. However, it’s well executed regardless of the version. Ultimately, the duet version with Beyoncé is a welcome addition to any music lover’s collection, particularly if you are an Ed Sheeran super fan.